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• Advance Parole, Reentry Permits and Travel Documents (Form I-131)

What is a Refugee Travel Document?

Home » What is a Refugee Travel Document?

July 5, 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues Refugee Travel Documents to persons with refugee or asylum status (and in some cases to lawful permanent residents who obtained their permanent residence through refugee or asylum status).

Who Needs a Refugee Travel Document

You must have a Refugee Travel Document to return to the United States if you:

• Have refugee or asylum status but are not a lawful permanent resident (green card holder); or
• Are a derivative asylee or refugee.

If you do not obtain a travel document before you leave the U.S., you may be unable to re-enter the United States or you may be placed in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.

Lawful permanent residents who obtained their status through refugee or asylum status may also apply for a travel document. Although permanent residents can generally enter the United States with the green card (after an absence of less than one year), a travel document may be needed to enter other countries. In this way, the travel document is much like a passport.

An asylum “applicant” cannot obtain a Refugee Travel Document. Instead, asylum applicants may apply for an Advance Parole Document . Advance Parole allows certain aliens to return to the United States without a visa after traveling abroad.

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

To apply for a Refugee Travel Document, file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document . You should file a Form I-131 before you leave the United States and expect processing times of approximately three months. However, it may take longer. Expedited processing may be available for your situation.

Should you need to leave the United States before USCIS grants the travel document or you want to apply outside the United States, please consult with an immigration attorney .

Mistakes on your Form I-131 can cause costly delays or a denial.

Period of validity.

A Refugee Travel Document is valid for up to one year. During this time you can use the document multiple times.

USCIS will not renew your travel document. Instead, you’ll need to apply for a new one with Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.

Traveling to the Country of Persecution

Traveling back to the country where you experienced past persecution or claim a fear of future persecution is highly discouraged.

RECOMMENDED: Dangers of Refugee/Asylee Travel to Home Country

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Advance Parole, Reentry Permit, and Refugee Travel Documentation for Returning Aliens Residing in the U.S

How to File The alien must file Form I-131, Application for a Travel Document, complete with supporting documentation, photos and applicable fees. This form can be downloaded from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) website. See the application for specific filing instructions.

How to File For a Re-Entry Permit If the alien is a permanent resident or conditional resident, he or she must attach:

• A copy of the alien registration receipt card; or
• If he has not yet received his alien registration receipt card, a copy of the biographic page of his passport and the page of his passport indicating initial admission as a permanent resident, or other evidence that the alien is a permanent resident; or
• A copy of the approval notice of a separate application for replacement of the alien registration receipt card or temporary evidence of permanent resident status.

How to File For Advance Parole An alien in the United States and applying for an Advance Parole document for him or herself must attach:

• A copy of any document issued to the alien by DHS showing present status in the United States;
• An explanation or other evidence demonstrating the circumstances that warrant issuance of Advance Parole.
• If the alien is basing his or her eligibility for Advance Parole on a separate application for adjustment of status or asylum, he must also attach a copy of the filing receipt for that application.
• If the alien is traveling to Canada to apply for an immigrant visa, he or she must also attach a copy of the consular appointment.

How to File For a Refugee Travel Document If the alien is a refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document, he or she must attach:

• A copy of the document issued by DHS showing the alien's refugee or asylee status and indicating the expiration of such status.

Where to File Where to file the Form I-131 depends upon the benefit sought. See the form instruction page for details.

When to File The alien must apply for the travel document before leaving the United States. Failure to do so may cause the alien to lose permission to re-enter the country, and lead to the denial of any other applications.

Moving and Traveling

If you move, it is important to update your address with the U.S. government. That way, you will make sure to receive important documents in the mail like hearing or interview notices. You need to update your address separately with every immigration agency you interact with.

Scroll down or click on the links below to read questions and answers from the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP).

Can I move while my asylum application is pending?

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Yes, you can move while your asylum application is pending, unless ICE has told you that you cannot move.

When you move, it is very important that you update your address as soon as possible. You need to update your address separately with every immigration agency you interact with. This can include one or more of these immigration agencies: USCIS, immigration court, and ICE or ISAP. Unfortunately, these agencies will not update each other when somebody moves, so you have to update each of them. If you update every agency, you will make sure to receive important documents in the mail like hearing or interview notices. Please keep reading for instructions.

When you move, it is important to update your address with the U.S. government if you want to pursue your immigration case. That way, you will receive important documents in the mail such as hearing or interview notices, or your work permit card.

You need to update your address separately with every immigration agency you interact with.

• You can update your address online on this USCIS website .
• Find more options here .
• You can update your address online on this immigration court website .
• If you moved far away, you may also wish to submit a Motion to Change Venue to request to move your case to a court closer to you. This is optional.
• If you are not sure if you have a case in immigration court, read more here .
• You can update your address online on this BIA website .
• You can update your address in person during your next check-in, using the online tool to update your address with ICE , or by phone at 833-383-1465.

If you are an ASAP member, you do NOT need to change your address with ASAP. The Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP) is a nonprofit organization and is not part of the U.S. government.

If you have an application pending with USCIS, such as a work permit application or an asylum application, you can change your address with USCIS online or by phone. Read below for more details on how to change your address with USCIS and what might happen if you moved far away. You may also need to change your address with other immigration agencies .

Option 1: Online Form

• You can change your address with USCIS by completing an online form on this USCIS webpage .
• You need an email address and a receipt number to complete the online form.
• You should submit a separate online form for each family member who is included in your asylum application. Your family member’s biometrics appointment notice should include their A Number and receipt number.
• After submitting the form, you should receive an email from USCIS confirming that they updated your address, usually within a few weeks. Keep this email for your records.

Option 2: Online USCIS Account 

• If you submitted your asylum application online, you can also change your address in your online account .
• If you change your address in your online account, you do NOT have to separately update addresses for other family members who are included in your asylum case. Their addresses will be updated automatically.

Option 3: By Phone 

• If you do not have a receipt number and you did not submit your asylum application online, you can try calling the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 instead.
• When you are asked to explain what you are calling about, you can say “InfoPass” in order to speak with a representative to update your address.
• During the call, you can also ask to update the address for every family member who is included in your asylum application.

What will happen after I update my address if I moved far away? 

• USCIS may automatically change your asylum office to one closer to you.

If this happens and it has been less than 180 days since you submitted your asylum application, USCIS will probably stop your “asylum clock.” This can delay when you can apply for your first work permit as an asylum seeker.

If your clock has been stopped, you can try contacting your new asylum office to ask them to re-start your clock. You can find contact information for asylum offices here . Read more about the asylum clock here .

• If you received an asylum interview notice already and you are not able to attend the interview because you moved far away, you should request to reschedule your interview . You should do this as soon as possible.

You can change your address with the immigration court by submitting Form EOIR-33 by mail or online. Read below for more detailed instructions! If you moved far away , you may also wish to submit a Motion to Change Venue to ask your judge to move your case to an immigration court closer to you.

You may also need to change your address with other immigration agencies .

Option 1: Online

• Go to this immigration court website .
• You can follow the instructions on the website to complete the online form. You need to complete a separate form for each of the family members included in your case. For example, if you have 2 children and they are included in your case, you would need to complete the form 3 times.
• You can change the language of the form in the top right corner, but you must enter all answers in English .
• For “Base City,” you should select the city where your current immigration court is located, not the city that you moved to.
• After filling out your personal information, click the button that says “CLICK TO REVIEW.” Check that all the answers are accurate. Then, type your name in the “Signature” space.
• In the “PROOF OF SERVICE” section, make a selection in the drop down menu for the “Office of the Chief Counsel for DHS.” This is the official name for the office of the government attorney. Select the office location that matches your current immigration court.
• At the bottom of the form, type your name again in the “Signature” space.
• Click “Submit.” This sends the form electronically to the immigration court.
• After submitting the form, print 2 copies. The first copy is for your own records.
• Note: You can also submit the form online by registering on this separate government website . However, sending by mail is usually easier, because the government may take several weeks to approve your registration. After your registration is approved, you have to go back to the website and follow the instructions to send a copy of the Form EOIR-33 to the government attorney.

Option 2: By mail  

• Download the correct Form EOIR-33 for your immigration court. Select the city where your current immigration court is located, not the city that you moved to.
• You can see a copy of a Form EOIR-33 with instructions here . You can also watch  this video .
• You need to complete a separate Form EOIR-33 for each of the family members included in your case. If your child is under 14 years old, you can sign for your child. If your child is 14 years old or older, it is best for the child to sign the form.
• You will need the U.S. government attorney’s address to fill out the last section of Form EOIR-33. You can find their address here .
• After you have filled out Form EOIR-33, make 2 extra copies. You can mail the original to your current immigration court. You can use the second page with the immigration court address as an envelope, by folding and taping the edges and placing a stamp. You can also submit it in person at the filing window in the immigration court.
• Keep the first copy for your own records.
• Send the second copy to the U.S. government attorney by mail. You can find their address here .

You can change your address with the BIA by submitting Form EOIR-33 by mail or online. Read below for more detailed instructions! You may also need to change your address with other immigration agencies .

• Open this online form .
• You can follow the instructions on the website to complete the online form. You need to complete a separate form for each of the family members included in your case.
• After filling out your personal information, click the button that says “Click to Review.” Check that all the answers are accurate. Then, type your name in the “Signature” space.
• In the “PROOF OF SERVICE” section, make a selection in the drop down menu for the “Office of the Chief Counsel for DHS.” This is the official name for the office of the government attorney. Select the office location that matches the immigration court where you had your immigration case.
• Click “Submit.” This sends the form electronically to the BIA.
• Download this version of Form EOIR-33 for changing your address with the BIA.
• After you have filled out Form EOIR-33, make 2 extra copies. You can mail the original to the BIA. The second page of the form has BIA’s address. You can use this second page as an envelope, by folding and taping the edges and placing a stamp.
• Send the second copy to the government attorney by mail. You can find their address here .

If you have check-in appointments with ICE or ISAP, you can tell an official about your new address during your next check-in or by phone. It can help to bring proof of your new address to the check-in, such as a utility bill or mail.

You can also use this online tool to update your address with ICE , or call ICE at 833-383-1465 to update your address.

ICE tells some people that they should notify their ICE officer before they move. You can find more information on this ICE website .

After you move, you may also need to change your address with other immigration agencies .

If you moved far away from your immigration court, you can request to change your immigration court to one that is closer to you if necessary. The way to do this is by submitting a “Motion to Change Venue” to the immigration court where you currently have a hearing scheduled. You do not need an attorney to do this: we have included detailed steps and a template below. But if you would like legal assistance, you can find help here .

First, how do I know if I should file a Motion to Change Venue?

A Motion to Change Venue is not necessary every time you move. You should only submit a Motion to Change Venue if you are not able to go to your hearings because your current immigration court is too far away, and there is a different immigration court that is closer to your new address. If you submit a Motion to Change Venue and the judge approves it, your case will be moved to an immigration court closer to your new address.

You do not have to submit a Motion to Change Venue if you moved, but your current immigration court is still the closest one to you. You also do not have to submit a Motion to Change Venue if you moved far away, but you are still able to go to your hearings and you want to keep your case at your current immigration court. However, every time you move, you still need to update your address to ensure that you receive important mail.

As of April 2023, a Motion to Change Venue no longer stops the “ asylum clock .”  The asylum clock must reach 150 days after filing asylum before you can apply for a work permit.

How do I file a Motion to Change Venue?

If you want to request to move your immigration court, follow the steps below. You can see a template Motion to Change Venue here .

• Check the immigration court automated system to get some information. Write the answers down.
• Where is your current immigration court?
• Who is your immigration judge?
• When is your next hearing?
• Get proof of your new address. 
• For example, this can be a rent agreement, a utility bill, or your child’s records from their new school. The document should show your name and new address. Make a copy of this document to attach to your request.
• If you do not have any other proof, you can ask for a letter from someone who lives with you at your new address. If the letter is not in English, you will need to include a translation into English and a certificate of translation . You also need to include a copy of this person’s ID and proof of address. You can download a blank letter that the person can fill out here . You can see a copy of a letter with instructions here (page 6 of this packet).
• Fill out a Form EOIR-33. This is a form that tells the immigration court that you have moved to a new address.
• Download the correct Form EOIR-33 for your immigration court here . Select the city where your current immigration court is located, not the new city that you are trying to move your case to.
• See a copy of a Form EOIR-33 with instructions here . You can also watch  this video .
• You need to complete a separate Form EOIR-33 for each of the family members included in your case. For example, if you have 2 children and they are included in your case, you would need 3 forms in total. If your child is under 14 years old, you can sign for your child. If your child is 14 years old or older, it is best for the child to sign the form.
• You will need the government attorney’s address to fill out the last section of this form. You can find their address here .
• Fill out a “Motion to Change Venue.” This is a request that asks an immigration judge to move your case to the court closest to you. This document must be in English. If you choose to complete this document by handwriting, you should use black pen. 
• Download a blank copy of a Motion to Change Venue that you can fill out . This document was adapted from a sample provided by the U.S. government.
• See a copy of a Motion to Change Venue with instructions here .
• (1) If you read your Notice to Appear and you agree with what is written there, you can write: “I concede the allegations in the Notice to Appear.”
• (2) If you do NOT agree with what is written in your Notice to Appear, or you believe that immigration officials may have violated your rights when they arrested you, or you have any other doubts, it is best to talk with an attorney. You can also try to submit the Motion to Change Venue without mentioning the Notice to Appear. Some judges will still grant a Motion to Change Venue without this information. If the judge denies your Motion to Change Venue, you may want to speak with an attorney before trying again.
• (3) If you do not have a copy of your Notice to Appear, you can write: “I do not understand the allegations in my Notice to Appear because I do not have a copy of this document and I do not have an attorney.” Some judges will still grant a Motion to Change Venue in this situation. If the judge denies your Motion to Change Venue, you can try to get a copy of your Notice to Appear and submit again.
• To fill out the Proof of Service, which is on the last page, you will need the government attorney’s address. You can find their address here . The Proof of Service is a document that shows the immigration judge that you sent a copy of your documents to the government attorney.
• Put the completed documents together in this order:
• Form EOIR-33. You need to complete a separate form for yourself and each person included in your case.
• Motion to Change Venue cover page and explanation of why you need to change your immigration court.
• Proof of your new address.
• Proposed order of the immigration judge.
• Proof of service.
• Review the package.
• Read through all the pages to make sure everything is accurate.
• Make sure that you wrote your correct name, A Number, old address, and new address.
• Make sure you have signed and put in the date on: (1) Form EOIR-33, (2) the Motion to Change Venue, and (3) the Proof of Service.
• Make 2 copies of the package. You should have 1 original and 2 copies.
• The original should be mailed to your current immigration court. You can find the immigration court’s address here .
• The first copy should be mailed to the government attorney. You can find the government attorney’s address here .
• The second copy should be kept in a safe place for your records.
• Wait for the immigration judge’s decision. The immigration judge’s decision will be mailed to your new address. Check your mail and the immigration court system regularly.
• Sometimes judges can take a long time to decide on a Motion to Change Venue. If you have been waiting for a long time, or if your scheduled hearing date is coming up, you can try calling the court for an update on your case. You can find immigration court phone numbers here . Please note that sometimes it is very hard to get somebody on the phone. You should keep trying.
• If you do not get a decision in time, you should go to your scheduled hearing. If you do not go to your hearing, you will likely receive a deportation order for missing your hearing. (If you do miss your hearing, do not give up! Read about steps you can take .)
• You may also need to change your address with other immigration agencies. If you also have an application pending with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or check-ins with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), you also need to separately update your address with those agencies .

You can try, although it does not always work. If you think you have a case in immigration court , but your case does not appear when you try to check the automated court system , you can still try to update your address using Form EOIR-33 online or by mail.

To confirm which immigration court to send the Form EOIR-33 to, you can check to see if you have a document called a “Notice to Appear.” Some of these documents have the date and place you will appear for your first immigration court hearing, but not all documents have this information.

Unfortunately, even if you send in your Form EOIR-33, there is still a chance that the immigration court will send important documents to your old address. So it is very important to check the court system every week to find out when your first immigration court hearing is scheduled. If you want to pursue your asylum case, it is very important that you attend your immigration court hearings! If you miss any hearing , you will likely receive a deportation order.

If you want to submit your asylum application, you can submit it to USCIS instead . In general, you must submit an asylum application within one year of arriving in the United States.

If you have a pending asylum case, you can travel within the United States with an ID or your passport. You should also carry the documents that you were given when you first entered the country, just in case.

If you have appointments with ICE or ISAP , the official often requires you to tell them before you travel outside the state.

Generally, if you want to continue to pursue your asylum case, it is best not to travel outside the United States.

Your asylum case can be denied if you travel to your country of origin.

If you need to travel to a country that is not your country of origin, you can try to apply for advance parole from the U.S. government. But getting advance parole can be difficult.

• If you are applying for asylum with USCIS , you can try to apply for advance parole with USCIS using Form I-131 . However, the advance parole application may be denied and it can take several months or longer to receive a decision.
• If you are applying for asylum in immigration court , you can try to request advance parole from ICE. However, this is even more difficult than requesting advance parole from USCIS. Also, if an immigration judge has ordered your removal or your case is on appeal, leaving the United States might be considered an act of self-deportation, and you may lose the right to continue fighting for asylum.

If you travel outside the United States without advance parole, your asylum case can be denied.

If you are considering traveling outside the United States, you may wish to find an attorney to discuss your options.

Yes! The documents you need to travel depend on your current immigration status.

If you have won asylum but are not yet a U.S. permanent resident , you should apply for a refugee travel document to travel outside the United States. You can apply for a refugee travel document by submitting Form I-131 to USCIS. You can find more information on this USCIS page .

Also, please know that there are risks if you travel to your country of origin after you win asylum. If you do this, the U.S. government can end your asylum status. The U.S. government can also deny your green card (permanent residence) application because you traveled to your country of origin.

If you are a U.S. permanent resident, you can travel outside of the United States with your Permanent Resident card and a passport from your country of origin. But if you prefer not to use your passport or cannot safely get or renew a passport , you can apply for a refugee travel document to travel outside the United States. You can apply for a refugee travel document by submitting Form I-131 to USCIS. You can find more information on this USCIS page .

Again, there are risks if you travel to your country of origin. The U.S. government can end your permanent residence, and it can also negatively affect your U.S. citizenship application if you apply.

If you become a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a U.S. passport in order to travel outside the United States.

Note: This page is for adults who are interested in seeking asylum in the United States. Our hope is that you will use the information to better understand the asylum process and take control of your case. However, this information is not a substitute for legal advice about your particular case. To look for legal assistance, visit ASAP’s find help page . 

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Can A Person Under Pending Asylum Get A Travel Document

Published: November 1, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Samara Fisk

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Seeking asylum is a complex and often challenging process for individuals facing persecution, violence, or other forms of harm in their home countries. When someone applies for asylum in the United States, their case is reviewed by immigration authorities to determine whether they meet the criteria for protection.

During this process, an applicant may be granted a pending asylum status, which means their case is still under review and a final decision has not been reached. This period of waiting can last months or even years, leaving individuals in a state of uncertainty and often unable to travel outside the country.

However, there may be situations where individuals with pending asylum can obtain a travel document, allowing them to temporarily leave the United States for various reasons such as family emergencies, humanitarian reasons, or critical events in their home countries.

In this article, we will explore the concept of pending asylum and the possibility of obtaining a travel document. We will discuss the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the travel restrictions and conditions that may apply to individuals with pending asylum status. Understanding these factors is crucial for those who are navigating the complex asylum system in the United States.

Understanding Pending Asylum

When someone applies for asylum in the United States, their case is assigned a pending asylum status while it undergoes review by immigration authorities. During this period, the applicant is allowed to remain in the country while their case is evaluated.

The pending asylum status provides certain protections to individuals, including the ability to work legally in the United States. It also offers temporary relief from the fear of deportation, as the government cannot remove an individual who has a pending asylum case.

However, it is important to note that a pending asylum status does not guarantee approval of the asylum application. The final decision regarding asylum is made by immigration officials based on the merits of the case and whether the applicant meets the criteria for asylum.

While an individual’s case is in the pending asylum status, they may experience significant waiting times before a decision is reached. The length of this waiting period can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the backlog of asylum applications, and the current immigration policies in place.

During the pending asylum period, individuals are often faced with various challenges and limitations. One of these limitations is the restriction on international travel. Leaving the United States without proper authorization can have serious consequences, including the abandonment of the pending asylum application.

However, there are situations where individuals with pending asylum may be eligible to obtain a travel document, which would allow them to temporarily leave the United States for specific reasons, such as humanitarian purposes or family emergencies. The process of obtaining a travel document is regulated and requires meeting certain criteria and submitting the necessary documentation.

In the next section, we will explore what a travel document is and who may be eligible to apply for one while under pending asylum status.

What is a Travel Document?

A travel document, also known as a refugee travel document or an advance parole document, is an official document that allows individuals with pending asylum status or those granted asylum to travel outside of the United States temporarily. It serves as a substitute for a passport, which may not be available to individuals seeking protection in the United States.

The travel document provides a legal and valid means for individuals to travel internationally while their asylum case is still pending. It is important to note that a travel document does not grant any immigration status or permanent residency in another country. Its purpose is solely to facilitate temporary travel.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues travel documents to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements and have a valid reason for travel, such as urgent humanitarian reasons, educational or work-related purposes, or situations involving family emergencies.

If approved, the travel document typically allows individuals to travel in and out of the United States for a specified period. It is essential to comply with the validity dates and any conditions or restrictions mentioned on the travel document.

It is important to note that not all individuals with pending asylum status are eligible or granted a travel document. The decision to issue a travel document is discretionary and depends on various factors, including the urgency and significance of the travel request, the individual’s compliance with immigration regulations, and the assessment of potential risks.

In the next section, we will discuss the eligibility criteria for obtaining a travel document while under pending asylum status.

Eligibility for a Travel Document

Individuals with pending asylum status in the United States may be eligible to apply for a travel document if they meet certain criteria. The eligibility requirements for obtaining a travel document are as follows:

• Valid Asylum Application: The individual must have a pending asylum application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or have been granted asylum.
• Compelling Reason for Travel: The person must have a valid reason for the travel, such as urgent humanitarian needs, educational or work-related purposes, or family emergencies. The purpose of the travel must be well-documented and supported by evidence.
• Good Moral Character: The applicant must demonstrate good moral character and compliance with immigration regulations. This includes having a clean criminal record and not engaging in any activities that may jeopardize their asylum application or immigration status.
• Intent to Return: The individual must show that they have a genuine intent to return to the United States after their temporary travel. This is to ensure that the travel document is not being used to evade the asylum process or as a means to permanently relocate.

It is important to thoroughly review and consider the eligibility criteria before applying for a travel document. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval, as the decision is ultimately at the discretion of the USCIS. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or a reputable immigration organization for guidance on the application process and to ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared accurately and submitted on time.

In the next section, we will delve into the process of applying for a travel document while under pending asylum status.

Applying for a Travel Document

Applying for a travel document while under pending asylum status involves following a specific process outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Below are the general steps to apply for a travel document:

• Complete Form I-131: The first step is to complete and submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to the USCIS. This form can be downloaded from the USCIS website or obtained from a local USCIS office. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the application.
• Include Supporting Documentation: Along with the completed form, you will need to provide supporting documentation to prove your eligibility for a travel document. This may include evidence of your pending asylum application, such as the receipt notice or any correspondence from the USCIS. Additionally, you will need to provide documentation of the compelling reason for your travel, such as medical records, employment verification, or proof of a family emergency.
• Pay the Required Fee: There is a fee associated with filing Form I-131. The current fee amount can be found on the USCIS website. It is important to pay the fee using the accepted methods of payment, such as a personal check or money order, and include the payment receipt along with your application.
• Submit the Application: Once the form is completed, supporting documentation is gathered, and the required fee is paid, you can submit the application package to the USCIS. It is recommended to make a copy of the entire application package for your records.
• Attend Biometrics Appointment: After submitting your application, you will receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected for background checks. It is crucial to attend this appointment as scheduled.
• Wait for Decision: After the biometrics appointment, the USCIS will review your application and supporting documents. The processing times can vary, but typically, you can expect to receive a decision within a few months. You can check the status of your application through the USCIS website.
• Receive Travel Document: If your application is approved, you will receive a travel document, also known as a refugee travel document or an advance parole document. Make sure to review the travel document for any travel restrictions or limitations, as well as the validity dates.

It is important to note that travel document applications can be complex, and any mistakes or omissions may lead to delays or denials. Seeking guidance from an immigration attorney or a reputable immigration organization can help ensure that your application is accurate and complete.

Now that we have covered the application process, let’s move on to the required documentation for a travel document application.

Document Requirements

When applying for a travel document while under pending asylum status, it is essential to gather and submit the required documentation to support your application. Meeting the document requirements is crucial for a successful application. Here are the key documents you will need to include:

• Form I-131: The completed and signed Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is the primary document you need to submit. Make sure to fill out all sections accurately, providing the required information about your pending asylum status and the purpose of your travel.
• Proof of Pending Asylum Application: Include a copy of the receipt notice or any other official correspondence from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that confirms your pending asylum application. This serves as proof that your asylum case is still under review.
• Supporting Documents: Gather relevant supporting documents that demonstrate the compelling reason for your travel. For example, if the purpose of your travel is a family emergency, provide documentation such as medical records, a letter from a healthcare professional, or any other evidence that supports your claim.
• Valid Passport: If you have a valid passport from your home country, provide a copy of the biographical page. If you do not have a valid passport, include a written explanation for its absence.
• Photographs: Include two passport-sized photographs that meet the USCIS specifications. Make sure the photos are recent and accurately represent your current appearance. The specifications can be found on the USCIS website.
• Payment Receipt: Include a copy of the payment receipt for the filing fee associated with Form I-131. Make sure to follow the USCIS guidelines for the acceptable methods of payment.
• Other Supporting Evidence: Depending on the specific purpose of your travel, you may need to provide additional supporting documentation. For instance, if your travel is work-related, include a job offer letter or an employment verification letter. If your travel is for humanitarian reasons, provide any relevant documentation that confirms the urgency or necessity of your travel.

It is crucial to carefully review the specific requirements for a travel document application on the USCIS website or seek guidance from an immigration attorney. Keep in mind that submitting the necessary documents in a clear and organized manner can significantly contribute to a successful application.

Next, we will discuss the processing times for travel document applications and the travel restrictions and conditions that may apply to individuals with pending asylum status.

Processing Times

The processing times for travel document applications while under pending asylum status can vary. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) makes every effort to process applications efficiently, but the timeframe can depend on various factors, including the volume of applications and the complexity of individual cases.

Typically, it takes several months to receive a decision on a travel document application. It is important to keep in mind that this is an estimate, and processing times can be subject to change.

The USCIS provides an online tool called the “Check Processing Times” tool where you can check the current processing times for Form I-131 applications. By entering the specific USCIS service center and form type, you can get an idea of the average processing time.

It is also worth noting that USCIS processing times can vary based on workload shifts, policy changes, or external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial to monitor the USCIS website for any updates or changes to processing times.

If your travel plan is urgent and time-sensitive, such as for a medical emergency or a humanitarian crisis in your home country, you may consider requesting expedited processing. Expedited processing is available under certain circumstances, such as severe financial loss, humanitarian reasons, or significant public interest.

To request expedited processing, you need to contact the USCIS directly or indicate your request in your travel document application. It is important to provide supporting evidence and a clear explanation of why your case meets the criteria for expedited processing.

While waiting for a decision on your travel document application, it is essential to maintain your pending asylum status and comply with all immigration regulations. Avoid any actions that may negatively impact your pending asylum case, such as unauthorized travel outside the United States.

Now that we have discussed processing times, let’s move on to the travel restrictions and conditions that may apply to individuals with pending asylum status.

Travel Restrictions and Conditions

Individuals with pending asylum status who are granted a travel document must be aware of certain travel restrictions and conditions that may apply. Understanding and adhering to these restrictions is crucial to avoid any negative consequences or complications with their pending asylum case. Here are some important travel restrictions and conditions to keep in mind:

• Validity and Expiration: The travel document will have a specified validity period, during which you are allowed to travel. It is essential to pay attention to the expiration date and plan your travel accordingly. Once the document expires, you will need to apply for a new one if you wish to travel again.
• Destination Country: The travel document allows you to travel internationally, but it does not grant you entry into other countries. It is essential to research and comply with the entry requirements of the destination country, including visa requirements or any specific documentation needed for entry.
• Re-entry to the United States: A travel document does not guarantee re-entry into the United States. It is important to ensure that you have a valid visa or other appropriate travel authorization, such as an advance parole endorsement, to re-enter the United States after your temporary travel.
• Asylum Application Abandonment: Leaving the United States without obtaining a travel document or proper authorization while under pending asylum status may be deemed abandonment of your asylum application. It is vital to obtain a travel document before traveling to avoid potential complications with your asylum case.
• Travel Updates and Reporting: If you receive a travel document and your travel plans change or are extended beyond the original dates, it is crucial to inform the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) promptly. Failure to report changes or overstaying your authorized travel period can have serious consequences, including jeopardizing your pending asylum status.
• Travel Restrictions and Warnings: It is essential to check for any travel warnings or restrictions issued by the U.S. Department of State for your intended destination. The safety and security of the country you plan to visit should be considered to ensure your well-being during your travel.

It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or a reputable immigration organization for guidance on the travel restrictions and conditions that may apply to your specific situation. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information and help ensure a smooth travel experience while maintaining your pending asylum status.

Now, let’s conclude the article.

Navigating the asylum process in the United States can be a complex and challenging journey for individuals seeking protection from persecution in their home countries. For those with pending asylum status, the ability to travel outside the United States may seem limited or uncertain.

However, it is important to understand that under certain circumstances, individuals with pending asylum may be eligible to obtain a travel document, allowing them to temporarily leave the country for compelling reasons such as humanitarian emergencies or family obligations.

Applying for a travel document involves meeting specific eligibility requirements, submitting the necessary documentation, and following the prescribed application process outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is crucial to carefully review the requirements, gather the supporting documents, and submit the application accurately and in a timely manner.

Once approved, individuals with a travel document must adhere to the travel restrictions and conditions imposed by the USCIS. This includes being mindful of the validity period, complying with entry requirements of the destination country, and ensuring proper re-entry authorization to the United States.

Understanding the processing times, travel restrictions, and conditions associated with a travel document is essential to avoid potential complications with your pending asylum case. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or a reputable immigration organization to ensure that you are well-informed and guided throughout the process.

The ability to travel internationally, even temporarily, can provide individuals with pending asylum status an opportunity to address urgent needs or attend to crucial matters in their home countries. Obtaining a travel document can be an important lifeline for those facing difficult circumstances while awaiting a final decision on their asylum case.

By being knowledgeable about the requirements, prepared with the necessary documentation, and compliant with the regulations, individuals with pending asylum status can navigate the process of obtaining a travel document effectively and safely while maintaining their pending asylum status.

Remember, the information provided in this article serves as a general guide and should not substitute professional advice. It is recommended to seek personalized guidance from an immigration attorney or a trusted immigration organization to ensure the best possible outcome for your individual situation.

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Political Asylum USA: Asylum Immigration Status in United States

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Common Questions About Asylum | Travel

One concern a lot of   people have when they apply for asylum in the United States — or once they receive asylum here — is if or how it affects their ability to travel to other countries. In this section, we will provide the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this issue.

Can I travel as an asylee?

If you are an asylee, your application for asylum in the United States has been approved. That also means you have certain rights, including the right to travel outside of the United States. However, there are certain rules you must follow in order to do so.

Specifically, you must get a special travel document called a Refugee Travel Document, which can be used instead of a U.S. Passport. This is important because if you fail to do so before you leave the United States, you may not be able to re-enter the country upon your return. Depending on your situation, you may even be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings.

You can apply for a Refugee Travel Document by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The agency recommends that you do so at least 60 days (two months) prior to leaving the United States.

If you do not file for a Refugee Travel Document prior to leaving the United States, a USCIS office overseas may accept your application. However, a USCIS office in another country   is not legally obligated to do so, and may not accept your application if there is any evidence you could have filed while you were still in the United States. Finally, you may only pursue this option if you have been outside the United States for at least one (1) year.

You can use a Refugee Travel Document for up to one year.

Can I travel to my country with asylum?

Yes, you can — but it really isn’t a good idea and you should avoid doing so unless absolutely necessary.

This is because the U.S. government granted your asylum based on your claims of past persecution or fear of future persecution in your home country. If you ask to go back without providing a valid reason, or if you can’t explain how you were able to go there without being harmed, the U.S. government may simply conclude that your asylum claim was invalid. It may also terminate your asylum status in the United States.

Can I travel while my asylum application is pending?

Again, the answer to this question is technically, “yes.” You can travel outside of the United States while you are waiting for the government to make a decision about your request for asylum. However, most immigration experts advise against doing so unless it is absolutely necessary. This is because the authorities can question you and there is no guarantee you’ll be allowed to come back into the country upon your return.

If you must travel to another country while your asylum application is pending, you must apply for Advance Parole before you leave the United States. You can do so by completing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. If your request is granted, you will be allowed to re-enter the United States prior to approval of your asylum application.

Immigration experts also advise against returning to the country where you claim that you were persecuted or have fear of being persecuted while your asylum application is pending. If you do so, the government will assume that you either abandoned your asylum application or submitted a fake one. If the government determines that you filed a fraudulent asylum application, you may never be allowed to set foot in the United States again.

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How To Get an Asylum Green Card — Permanent Residence for Asylees

You can apply for an asylum green card one year after the U.S. government grants your request for asylum. When you apply for an asylum green card, you can also apply for green cards for your spouse and children if they received “derivative” asylum with you. You and your family are only eligible to adjust status to asylum green cards if you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year since you received asylum status. This article explains the eligibility requirements for asylum green cards and shows you the step-by-step process to apply.‍

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Written May 25, 2022

What Is an Asylum Green Card?

An asylum seeker is anyone who entered the U.S. because they were fleeing targeted violence and fear of persecution in their home country. They may be documented or undocumented. This violence and fear must be due to the fact that they are a member of a particular social group or have a specific political opinion. Under U.S. immigration law, asylum-seekers can apply for a green card through adjustment of status one year after receiving their asylum grant.

What Are the Benefits of Adjusting Status From Asylum to a Green Card?

If you received a grant of asylum, you are not required to apply for a green card. However, there are many benefits of adjusting status from asylum to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. 

As a green card holder, you will enjoy immigration benefits not available to you while in asylee status. For example, you will be able to apply for U.S. citizenship in the future. You will also be able to come and go from the U.S. with Advance Parole , and you will be able to sponsor certain family members for green cards so that they can live and work peacefully with you in the United States.

Who Is Eligible for an Asylum Green Card?

To be eligible for an asylum green card, you must satisfy four conditions: 

You must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year. 

You must continue to meet the definition of a refugee. 

You must not have resettled in any other country.

You must not be deemed inadmissible. 

The rest of this section explains each of these asylum green card eligibility conditions in depth.

Be Physically Present in the U.S. for One Year

An asylee starts accruing physical presence in the U.S. beginning from the day USCIS approves their asylum request. According to U.S. immigration law, asylum seekers can apply for a green card one year after USCIS grants their asylum request. 

One year of physical presence in the U.S. only includes the time the asylee spent inside the U.S. If the asylee leaves the U.S. while in asylum status, USCIS will only count the day they left the U.S. and the day they returned to the U.S. as part of their physical presence. Anytime spent outside of the U.S. will not count toward the physical presence requirement. 

If you have asylum status, be very careful about leaving the country. It may affect your ability to keep your status. The USCIS policy manual spells out exactly how USCIS interprets physical presence when deciding on asylum green card cases.

Continue to Meet the Definition of a Refugee

To qualify to apply for a green card as an asylum seeker, you must continue to meet the definition of a refugee in U.S. immigration law. According to U.S. law, refugees are "people outside of their country who are unable or unwilling to return home because they fear serious harm." 

When applying for a green card, there must be no reason for the asylum officer to believe that you no longer fall under refugee status. If you travel back to the country you fled from, for instance, you will forfeit your refugee status. If you received derivative asylum, you must prove that you continue to be the spouse or child of the primary asylum applicant. If you're a child of a principal asylee and you get married, for instance, you will no longer be eligible for derivative asylum.

Not Firmly Resettled in Any Foreign Country

In order to keep your asylum status, you must only be “firmly settled” in the United States. USCIS will consider you as firmly settled in another country if, before entering the U.S., you received a permanent residence or citizenship offer in a third country that is neither your home country nor the United States. USCIS will also consider you firmly resettled if you leave the U.S. and receive permanent residence or citizenship in a third country after applying for asylum in the U.S. 

An asylee who wants to apply for a green card must not be a permanent resident or citizen of any third foreign country. If you are or become permanently resettled in a third country, you will lose your U.S. asylum status and be unable to apply for an asylum green card.

Not "Inadmissible"

To apply for the asylum green card, you must be “admissible.” That means that none of USCIS’s official inadmissibility grounds apply to you. The grounds of inadmissibility include your country of origin, health reasons, criminal reasons, national security reasons, prior removal proceedings, unlawful status, the likelihood of becoming a public charge, lack of labor certification, and fraud or misrepresentation. USCIS lists the full admissibility criteria for the asylum green card. 

How To Apply for an Asylum Green Card in 7 Steps

To adjust your status from an asylee to a lawful permanent resident and get an asylum green card, you must follow the seven steps below:

Complete the official permanent residence application Form I-485

Gather the relevant supporting documents

Pay the required filing fees

Submit your forms and supporting documents to USCIS

Attend your biometrics services appointment

Attend your green card interview

Receive your asylum green card

Step 1. Prepare Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

The first step in the asylum green card application process is to complete Form I-485 : Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This 20-page form is the official green card application. It asks about your biographic information, immigration history, immigration status, marital status, and many other things. Form I-485 will also assess whether you fall under any of the grounds of inadmissibility. You can find the most recent version of Form I-485 on the USCIS website.

Step 2. Gather Your Supporting Documents

When you have completed Form I-485, you should begin gathering your supporting documents. You’ll need the following things: 

A copy of your asylum approval notice.

Proof of your identity, preferably a birth certificate with any foreign language translated into English

A copy of any pages in your passport that shows any trips you made outside of the U.S. since receiving asylum.

Proof of one year’s worth of physical presence in the U.S. This evidence can include pay stubs, rent receipts, or other official documents that prove you have been living in the U.S. for one year.

Two recent passport-size photos in color, with your name written on the back of each.

A copy of your Form I-94 : Arrival and Departure Record. USCIS should have given you this when they granted you asylum. If not, then you can get your I-94 online .

A copy of Form I-693 : Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This form must be completed by a USCIS-approved doctor. It isn’t always required, but USCIS may ask you to submit to a medical exam and receive vaccinations as part of the asylum process. If they require this of you, the doctor performing examination will give you a completed Form I-693.

Arrest records, if you have any.

A copy of a completed Form I-765 , the Application for Employment Authorization, if you want a work permit.

A copy of a completed Form I-131 , the Application for Travel Document, if you want to travel out of the U.S. before your green card interview. You must be sure not to travel back to the country you fled from.

Step 3. Pay the Form I-485 Filing Fee

Form I-485 has an accompanying filing fee of $1,140 and a biometrics services fee of $85. Most green card applicants pay a total of between $1,140 to $1,225. You can check USCIS for changes to the filing fees . You can pay the fees with a check or with a credit card. If you're paying with a credit card, you must complete Form G-1450 : Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. 

If you cannot afford these fees, you may qualify for a fee waiver . Since you don't have to pass the public charge test as an asylee, your fee waiver request will not affect your green card application processing. You can submit a fee waiver request by filing Form I-912 : Request for Fee Waiver. 

‍Step 4. Submit Your Filing Packet to USCIS

‍ Now that you have completed all the application forms, gathered your supporting documents, and secured your filing fees, it’s time to assemble all of these items into an immigration filing packet to submit to USCIS! 

Gather all of your forms and supporting documents into a neat packet. It’s a good idea to include a cover letter that lists all the forms, fees, and documents included in the application at the front of your filing packet. Make copies of everything you are sending in, and do not submit original documents unless USCIS asks you to. You may need them later!

Once you’ve assembled your packet, it’s time to mail it to USCIS. As an asylee, you will send your application packet to one of the USCIS lockboxes . The address you send the packet to will depend on where you live and the postal service that you use to submit the application. it's a good idea to use a postal service that has tracking so that you can keep an eye on your application.

Step 5. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

After you submit your packet, USCIS will schedule a biometrics services appointment at a local application support center (ASC) and send you a notice with the scheduled date, time, and location. At the biometrics appointment, the USCIS officer will take your fingerprints, photo, and signature. USCIS will use your information to verify with the FBI and Department of Homeland Security criminal databases that you are not involved in any illegal activity. 

Check out the USCIS guidelines on how to prepare for the biometrics appointment if you want to learn more.

Step 6. Attend Your Green Card Interview (if applicable)

Not every asylum applicant must attend a green card interview. Sometimes USCIS waives the green card interview since you already went through an asylum interview. If USCIS does require you to attend a green card interview, they will let you know by mail. 

The green card interview takes place generally three months after you submit your application. It is a significant part of the asylum green card application process for many asylees. At the interview, a USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application to confirm whether anything about your past or present circumstances prevents you from becoming a permanent resident. 

The interviewing officer may approve your application at the interview. If not, then you will receive a decision on your application in the mail soon after your interview. If USCIS approves your application, your green card will arrive in the mail a few weeks after your decision.

‍Step 7. Receive Your Asylum Green Card

‍ USCIS will send your card in the mail within 120 days of approving your green card application. You can track your case status online with the USCIS case tracker .  Congratulations, you are now a lawful permanent resident of the United States! 

As a green card holder, you should keep your valid green card on you at all times. It’s your ticket to living and working in the U.S. and enjoying the benefits of being a lawful permanent resident. You can get a Social Security card and driver's license as a permanent resident. After you have been in permanent resident status for five years, you can apply to become a U.S. citizen . 

If USCIS does not approve your case, or you do not receive your green card within the 120-day time frame, you can talk to a lawyer to explore your options. If you can’t afford a lawyer, see if you qualify for help through legal aid .

How Do You Apply for an Asylum Green Card for Your Family Members?

If you applied for asylum with your family members and they received derivative asylum together with your approved request, they can also apply for a green card after a year of being physically present in the U.S. while remaining in asylee status. They can apply for their green cards with or without you, even if you choose not to apply for an asylum green card.

Each family member who wants to apply for a green card must submit a separate Form I-485 with their own required evidence and filing fees. You and your family members can mail all of the completed individual applications to USCIS in one package, or mail them to USCIS separately. 

Your family members will need to send some additional supporting documents with those listed above when they apply for their derivative asylum green cards. If you have a spouse that's applying for a green card, you must include your marriage certificate with their application and a copy of the asylum approval notice. If your child is applying for a green card, you must include their birth certificate with their application. They must also include a copy of the asylum approval notice with their application.

Continue reading and learning!

The Complete Guide To Obtaining A Travel Visa And Applying For Asylum

• Last updated May 02, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Securing a travel visa and seeking asylum can be a complex and daunting process, often filled with uncertainty and bureaucratic red tape. Whether you're planning a trip to a foreign country or fleeing persecution in your own, understanding the ins and outs of the application process is essential. That's where The Complete Guide to Obtaining a Travel Visa and Applying for Asylum comes in. This comprehensive guidebook serves as a valuable resource, providing step-by-step instructions, expert advice, and insider tips to help you navigate the intricate world of visa applications and asylum requests. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time asylum seeker, this guide is a must-read for anyone looking to embark on a new adventure or seek refuge in a foreign land.

What You'll Learn

Understanding the process of obtaining a travel visa, steps to apply for asylum and seek protection in another country, documents required for a travel visa application, tips for a successful asylum application and interview.

If you're planning to travel abroad, one of the first things you'll need to do is obtain a travel visa. A travel visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that allows you to enter and stay in the country for a specific purpose and period of time. The process of obtaining a travel visa may vary depending on the country you wish to visit, but in general, there are several steps you'll need to follow. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process of obtaining a travel visa.

Determine the type of visa you need:

The first step in obtaining a travel visa is to determine the type of visa you need. Common types of visas include tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your visit and the activities you plan to engage in while in the country. It's important to research and understand the specific requirements and restrictions associated with each type of visa.

Research the visa requirements:

Once you have determined the type of visa you need, you'll need to research the specific requirements needed to obtain that visa. This may include providing documents such as a passport, proof of travel insurance, financial documents, and a letter of invitation from a sponsor or host in the foreign country. Each country has its own list of requirements, so it's important to check the official website of the foreign country's embassy or consulate to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

Fill out the visa application form:

After gathering all the required documents, you'll need to fill out the visa application form. The application form will typically ask for personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, and passport details. Additionally, you may be required to provide information about your purpose of visit and your intended length of stay in the foreign country. It's important to fill out the form accurately and completely to avoid any delays or rejections.

Submit the visa application:

Once you have completed the visa application form, you'll need to submit it along with the supporting documents to the appropriate embassy or consulate. Most countries offer different options for visa application submission, including in-person submission, mail-in application, or online application. It's important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the embassy or consulate for submitting your application.

Pay the visa application fee:

In most cases, obtaining a travel visa comes with an application fee. The fee amount may vary depending on the type of visa and the country you are applying to. You'll typically need to pay the visa application fee at the time of submitting your application. Make sure to check the accepted mode of payment and the fee amount specified by the embassy or consulate.

Wait for visa processing:

After submitting your visa application, you'll need to wait for the visa processing period. The processing time can vary depending on the country and the type of visa you are applying for. Some countries offer expedited processing for an additional fee, while others may take several weeks or even months to process the application. It's important to apply for the visa well in advance to allow for sufficient processing time.

Receive the visa decision:

Once the visa processing is complete, you'll receive a decision on your visa application. If your application is approved, the foreign country's embassy or consulate will issue a visa stamp on your passport or provide an electronic visa. It's important to check the validity and conditions of the visa upon receiving it to ensure you comply with all the rules and regulations during your travel.

Understanding the Necessity of a Visa for Travel: Everything You Need to Know

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Seeking asylum and applying for protection in another country can be a complex process, but it is a critical step for individuals who fear persecution or danger in their home country. If you are considering seeking asylum, here are the steps you should take:

• Research and understand the asylum laws of the country you wish to apply to: It is important to thoroughly research the asylum laws and procedures of the country you are interested in seeking protection in. Each country has its own set of requirements and processes, so understanding them is crucial.
• Gather evidence to support your asylum claim: To strengthen your asylum claim, gather evidence that supports your fear of persecution or danger in your home country. This evidence may include documentation of threats, persecution, or violence, as well as any relevant news articles, reports, or witness statements.
• Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you wish to apply to: Reach out to the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you want to seek asylum in. They will provide you with information on the specific procedures and requirements for applying for asylum. It is important to make an appointment and present your case to the relevant authorities.
• Prepare and submit your asylum application: Fill out the asylum application form provided by the embassy or consulate. Be thorough and provide detailed information about your background, reasons for seeking asylum, and any supporting evidence you have collected. This application will be the basis for your asylum claim.
• Attend any necessary interviews or hearings: Once your application is submitted, you may be required to attend interviews or hearings to further assess your asylum claim. These interviews are typically conducted to determine the credibility of your fear of persecution or danger.
• Cooperate and provide any additional requested documentation: Throughout the process, it is crucial to cooperate with the authorities and provide any requested documentation or information promptly. This may include medical records, witness statements, or additional evidence to support your claim.
• Await a decision on your asylum claim: After completing the necessary steps and providing all required information, you will need to await a decision on your asylum claim. The length of time it takes to receive a decision varies depending on the country and their asylum processing times.
• Comply with any post-approval requirements: If your asylum claim is approved, you will need to comply with any post-approval requirements, such as attending meetings with immigration officials, registering with local authorities, or accessing support services provided to refugees.

Seeking asylum and applying for protection in another country is a challenging and often time-consuming process. It is recommended to seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer or a reputable organization specializing in asylum and refugee support. They can provide guidance and support throughout the application process and increase your chances of a successful asylum claim.

Exploring Ireland's Rich Culture on a Schengen Visa

When planning to travel abroad, one of the most important aspects to consider is obtaining a travel visa. A travel visa is a document issued by a foreign country's government that allows you to enter and stay in that country for a specific period of time. It is essential to have the necessary documents in order to successfully apply for a travel visa. In this article, we will outline the documents required for a travel visa application.

• Passport: Your passport is the most crucial document for obtaining a travel visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the country you plan to visit. It is also advisable to have at least two blank pages in your passport to accommodate the visa stamp.
• Visa application form: Each country will have its own visa application form, which can usually be found on the website of the country's embassy or consulate. Fill out the form accurately, providing all the required information and ensure it is signed properly.
• Photographs: Most travel visa applications will require recent passport-sized photographs. The specifications for these photographs, such as size and background color, may vary depending on the country. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and provide the photographs accordingly.
• Proof of travel arrangements: You may be required to provide proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight itineraries and hotel bookings. This helps establish your intended purpose of the visit and your planned duration of stay in the country.
• Proof of accommodation: In addition to travel arrangements, some countries may ask for proof of accommodation during your visit. This can be in the form of hotel reservations, a letter of invitation from a host, or even a rental agreement if you are staying in a rented accommodation.
• Financial documents: It is important to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from your employer stating your salary and employment status. The requirements for financial documents will vary depending on the country and the expected duration of stay.
• Health and travel insurance: Some countries may require proof of health insurance coverage during your visit. Additionally, having travel insurance that covers medical expenses and trip cancellation can be beneficial for unexpected situations. Check the specific requirements of the country you plan to visit and obtain the necessary insurance accordingly.
• Supporting documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to provide additional supporting documents. For example, if you are visiting for business purposes, you may be asked to provide an invitation letter from a company or organization in the host country. Similarly, if you are visiting for educational purposes, you may need to provide acceptance letters from educational institutions or a letter of sponsorship.
• Visa fee: Most travel visa applications require payment of a visa fee, which is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa is approved or not. The fee amount will vary depending on the country and type of visa you are applying for. Make sure to check the current fee and payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulate.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for a travel visa application can vary greatly depending on the country you plan to visit. It is recommended to consult the official website of the country's embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Start gathering the required documents well in advance, as the visa application process can take several weeks or even months. Following these guidelines and being well-prepared will greatly increase your chances of successfully obtaining a travel visa.

How Schengen Visa Holders Can Travel to Switzerland

If you are considering applying for asylum in another country, it is important to be well-prepared for the application process and interview. This article provides some tips to help you increase your chances of a successful asylum application.

• Understand the Asylum Process: Before starting the application, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the asylum process of the country you plan to seek asylum in. Each country has its own set of asylum laws, procedures, and requirements. Make sure you gather information about the specific process you will be going through.
• Consult an Immigration Attorney: It is highly recommended to seek professional legal advice from an experienced immigration attorney who specializes in asylum cases. They can guide you through the process, help you prepare your application, and provide legal representation during your interview.
• Gather Evidence: Collect all the supporting evidence you have that proves your fear of persecution or harm in your home country. This evidence can include police reports, medical records, letters of threats, news articles, or any other documents substantiating your claims. Also, try to gather testimonies or affidavits from witnesses who can support your case.
• Organize Your Story: A well-structured and coherent narrative is crucial for a successful asylum application. Write down your story in a clear and concise manner, emphasizing the reasons why you fear persecution or harm in your home country. You should also explain any factors that could influence your case, such as your race, religion, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
• Practice Your Interview: As part of the asylum process, you will likely have to attend an interview where you will be questioned about your application and personal circumstances. Prepare for this interview by practicing with someone who can ask you relevant questions. Rehearse your answers to ensure that you can effectively convey your story and reasons for seeking asylum.
• Be Honest: It is crucial to be honest and transparent throughout the asylum application process. Any inconsistencies or false information can severely impact your credibility and the outcome of your application. Answer all questions truthfully, and provide as much evidence as possible to support your claims.
• Seek Emotional Support: Applying for asylum can be an extremely stressful and overwhelming process. Reach out to support networks in your community or seek counseling services to help you cope with the emotional challenges that may arise during this period.
• Keep Copies of All Documents: Make sure to keep duplicates of all documents you submit as part of your asylum application. These include your application forms, evidence, and any correspondence with immigration authorities. It is crucial to have copies in case any documents are lost or misplaced.
• Follow Up on Your Application: After submitting your asylum application, it is important to stay informed about the progress of your case. Keep track of any communication from immigration authorities and promptly respond to any requests for additional information or documents.
• Be Patient: The asylum application process can take a significant amount of time, and it is important to be patient. The wait can be stressful, but it is crucial to maintain a positive attitude and be persistent in pursuing your case.

Applying for asylum is a complex and challenging process. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of submitting a strong application and successfully navigating the asylum process. Remember, seeking legal assistance and preparing your case thoroughly are key factors in achieving a favorable outcome.

Exploring Gibraltar: Traveling with a Schengen Visa Made Simple

Frequently asked questions.

To obtain a travel visa, you usually need to visit the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to travel to and apply for a visa. The specific requirements can vary, but generally, you will need to complete an application form, provide supporting documents such as a passport, proof of travel arrangements, financial documentation, and sometimes undergo an interview.

A tourist visa is a type of travel visa that allows individuals to visit another country for tourism or leisure purposes. This type of visa typically has a limited duration and may have certain restrictions on employment or business activities during the stay.

To apply for asylum, you typically need to be physically present in the country where you are seeking asylum. You will need to complete an application form, provide detailed information about your reasons for seeking asylum, and evidence supporting your claim. This can include documents such as identification, passports, birth certificates, police reports, or medical records related to persecution or violence in your home country. It is advisable to seek legal assistance or consult an immigration attorney to guide you through the asylum application process.

A refugee is someone who has been granted refugee status by a country or recognized by international law as a result of fleeing persecution, violence, or conflict in their home country. An asylum seeker, on the other hand, is someone who has made an application for asylum but is still waiting for a decision on their refugee status. Both refugees and asylum seekers are individuals seeking protection in another country due to well-founded fears of persecution or harm.

In most cases, you cannot apply for asylum while holding a travel visa or any other type of non-immigrant visa that does not grant you the right to seek asylum. If you already have a travel visa, it is important to speak with an immigration attorney or seek legal advice before applying for asylum to understand the implications and potential consequences.

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• Visas and immigration
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Apply for a Home Office travel document

Refugee travel document.

You can apply for a refugee travel document if either:

• you have refugee status in the UK
• you originally came to the UK on a family reunion visa to join someone who has refugee status

How long it will be valid for

If you’re settled in the UK (known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’), your document will usually be valid for up to 10 years. If you’re 15 or under and settled in the UK, it will usually be valid for up to 5 years.

If you have permission to stay (known as ‘leave to remain’) your document will be valid until the end of your permission to stay in the UK.

Your document may be valid for a shorter time in some cases. For example, because your previous document has been lost.

Countries you can travel to

You can usually travel to all countries except:

• the country you’re from
• any country you sought asylum from

Before you travel

Check which documents you’ll need before you book your travel.

Ask the authorities of the country you’re visiting or travelling through if:

• the country accepts refugee travel documents
• you need a visa to enter the country
• £82 for adults (it’s free if you were born before 1 September 1929)
• £53 for children 15 or under

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Travel documents for refugees

Introduction, who can get a travel document, travelling to ireland with a ‘convention’ travel document, how to apply for a travel document, further information.

A travel document allows people living in Ireland who cannot get a passport to travel outside Ireland. People who have been declared a refugee are entitled to a 1951 Convention Travel Document.

You may also be able to get a travel document if you have subsidiary protection status or leave to remain, and you cannot get a national passport from your country of nationality.

Travel documents are valid for a maximum of 3 years.

You may be eligible for a travel document if you:

• Have been declared a refugee
• Have been granted Subsidiary Protection status
• Have been granted permission to live in Ireland following a request by the United National High Commissioner for Refugees (a programme refugee )
• Have been declared stateless under the New York Convention of 1954
• You are the family member of any of the above
• Have permission to remain and need to travel because of an emergency

If you have been declared a refugee following an application for international protection, or you came to Ireland as a programme refugee, you can get a travel document.

If you were declared a refugee following an application for international protection, you can get a refugee travel document. It says “Convention of 28 July 1951” on the front cover. It is sometimes called a ‘1951 Convention Travel Document’. You can travel to most countries in the EU without a visa, and stay for up to 90 days using this travel document. You should check with the embassy of the country where you plan to travel.

Programme refugees cannot get a 1951 Convention Travel Document. Instead, you can apply for a regular travel document.

People with subsidiary protection status

If you were granted subsidiary protection following an application for international protection, ISD may give you a travel document if you cannot get a passport from your country of nationality.

This travel document is valid for up to 3 years (or until your residency is due for renewal). You generally need a visa to enter other countries. You should check with the embassy of the country where you to plan to travel.

Family members

You may get a travel document if you are a family member of someone with refugee or subsidiary protection status. You must show that you have tried to get a passport or travel document from your country of nationality.

Your children need their own travel documents.

People with leave to remain or other residency status

ISD can issue a travel document to other residents, but only in exceptional circumstances, and where you cannot get a passport from your country of nationality. For example, if you have to travel abroad for urgent medical treatment and you are unable to get a passport, ISD may issue a travel document.

You should note that travel documents take 16 weeks or more to process.

Since 19 July 2022 , if you have a refugee travel document issued by a country outside Ireland , you must apply for a visa to enter Ireland.

You can apply for a travel document online for a fee of €55.

You can also apply by post. To get a paper form, you must email your request to [email protected]

If your application is successful your travel document will be sent to you by registered post. If your application is refused you will be informed in writing. You are advised not to make any travel arrangements until you receive your travel document.

You can find information about travel documents on the website of the Irish Immigration Service Delivery.

Travel Document Unit

Repatriation Division Immigration Services Delivery 13/14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 Ireland

Re-entry Visa Processing Office

Immigration Service Delivery 13/14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 Ireland

Related documents

• Your rights when you travel on a ferry or cruise When travelling in the EU by ferry or cruise ship, you have rights if there are delays or cancellations. Find out more about what to do if things go wrong. 1170.4109
• Your rights when you travel by bus or coach When travelling in the EU by bus or coach, you have rights if there are delays or cancellations. Find out more about what to do if things go wrong. 1131.9813
• Accommodation Recognition Payment for hosting refugees from Ukraine The Accommodation Recognition Payment is a monthly payment for people providing accommodation to people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. 1129.9677

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More than half of asylum seekers allocated for removal to Rwanda cannot be found, according to government's own report

The first deportation flights to Rwanda are planned for this July, which indicates no one who arrived in Britain on a small boat during the previous year will be onboard.

By Nick Stylianou, communities producer

Tuesday 30 April 2024 05:38, UK

More than half of the asylum seekers allocated for removal to Rwanda cannot be found by the Home Office, according to the government's own impact assessment.

Almost six thousand people were due to be issued a "Notice of Intent" that their asylum claim was inadmissible, but just over two thousand are able to be tracked down.

The Home Office claims in a new document that the government of Rwanda has agreed "in principle" to accept 5,700 asylum seekers from the UK, but admits only 2,143 attend regular check-ins and "can be located for detention".

It is unclear whether the 3,557 missing asylum seekers have gone underground to avoid deportation or are victims of administrative errors caused by moving between different taxpayer-funded accommodations.

Only asylum seekers who arrived between 1 July 2022 and 29 June 2023, and who already received a letter telling them about the Rwanda plan are in this group.

The first flights are planned for this July, which indicates no one who arrived in Britain on a small boat during the previous year will be onboard.

The policy document also notes that there is likely to be "significant attention from MPs" over individual cases and Home Office staff "may be overwhelmed".

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It warns that this might result in "delay or removal to be cancelled pending a response".

Members of Parliament are normally able to suspend deportation until they receive a reply to their queries over a case.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

The new departmental guidance also sets out the process by which asylum seekers would have their claims heard.

Migrants successfully granted asylum in Rwanda will stay there - and not be allowed to return to Britain - but the document goes on to state that "no individual...will be removed from Rwanda".

This means unsuccessful claimants would also remain in the African country.

"Those who are unsuccessful would either depart voluntarily or gain another kind of status in Rwanda with equal treatment to those recognised as refugees," according to the guidance.

Before being sent to Rwanda, asylum seekers will also be able to apply to leave Britain to return to their home country instead, with the Home Office helping with travel documents and flights.

But the report says that this must be requested before being taken to one of the country's six detention centres.

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However, new powers to ignore interim injunctions from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to prevent flights taking off will not be automatic.

Instead, it will be up to the Home Secretary to "assess, on a case-by-case basis".

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Read more from Sky News: First deportation flight to Rwanda 'booked' UK hits back over Ireland's migrant plans

In letters also released by the Cabinet Office on the Rwanda plan, civil servants have also been told not to stand in the way of the Rwanda scheme's success, despite their reservations over the possible legal status of contravening the ECHR.

Darren Tierney, the Cabinet Office's head of ethics, told Sir Matthew Rycroft, Home Office permanent secretary, that such cases are "a decision for a Minister of the Crown" and that "the UK's international obligations are a matter for Ministers".

Mr Tierney goes on to say that any staff who "refuse to implement" the Rwanda plan would go against "the broader constitutional function of the impartial Civil Service".

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US asylum app strands migrants and aids organised crime, rights group says

CBP One app offers far too few appointments, meaning asylum seekers must wait or pay human trafficking groups, report reveals

A US government smartphone app that tightly limits asylum appointments at the US-Mexico border is stranding vulnerable migrants in Mexico and enriching organised crime groups, according to a new report from Human Rights Watch (HRW).

The report, which draws on interviews with more than 100 migrants, as well as officials and activists, documents how the CBP One app – which is all but mandatory for asylum seekers – offers 1,450 appointments a day, when arrivals at the border averaged 7,240 a day between May 2023 and January 2024.

This “digital metering” means that asylum seekers must either wait for an appointment or resort to paying human trafficking groups to help them cross the border between ports of entry.

“The Biden administration claims that its asylum rule and effectively mandatory use of CBP One will disrupt smuggling networks,” said the report. “Human Rights Watch has observed that, on the contrary, digital metering in Mexico leaves asylum seekers vulnerable to extortion, kidnapping, and violence.

“And, with no other way to access protection, asylum seekers are more likely to engage smugglers, further enriching criminal cartels,” added the report.

The CBP One app became a requirement for asylum seekers in May 2023, as the US prepared to lift Title 42, a pandemic-era restriction on immigration , and anticipated a sharp rise in arrivals at the border.

That uptick in arrivals never materialised – but CBP One was nevertheless maintained.

There are certain exceptions to the requirement of a CBP One appointment, including those who can show “an imminent threat of rape, kidnapping, torture, or murder”, or “a severe form of trafficking in persons”.

However, HRW investigators document instances of asylum seekers being turned away despite describing how they face such threats in Mexico .

Rather than wait for an appointment in Mexico, many try to cross the border between ports of entry. Some drown in the Rio Grande river, while others die of dehydration in the Sonoran desert.

According to CBP data, 895 people died at the border during the 2022 fiscal year, the last year for which data has been released. That marked a 57% increase on 2021. Local organisations say it undercounts the true number .

Those who choose to wait for an appointment may spend months at risk of kidnap from organised crime groups.

“It’s systematic,” said Ari Sawyer, a researcher at HRW. “They kidnap them, put their phones on airplane mode, take photos of them and their documents, then go through their contacts and call US numbers until they find relatives they can extort for dollars.”

One person interviewed by HRW described being kidnapped in the state of Durango and seeing perhaps 150 others in the stash house where he was held. Another, who was kidnapped in Mexicali, said he saw two people shot and killed when they resisted.

Human Rights First, a human rights organisation, documented 13,480 publicly reported cases of kidnapping and other violent attacks on migrants during the Biden administration up to December 2022.

Rather than offering protection, Mexican officials sometimes collude with organised crime.

In one case, the mayor and chief of police in Matehuala, a city in the state of San Luis Potosí, were arrested for their part in a migrant kidnapping ring .

Officials also frequently force people on to buses that take them back south in Mexico – an informal policy that has been expanded during the presidency of Andrés Manuel López Obrador .

“These people have crossed Central America, they’ve gotten through Mexico, they’re waiting for a CBP One appointment – and then Mexican immigration sweeps them up, puts them on a bus, and forcibly transports them to the border with Guatemala,” said Sawyer.

This is part of Mexico’s role as US immigration enforcer , tasked with reducing arrivals at the border.

Last year, the official number of detentions of migrants soared to 800,000. The first three months of 2024 have already seen almost 400,000 .

When migrants are detained in Mexico, it is unclear what processes are being followed to determine how long they are held for, where they are released, and whether they are repatriated. But the longer they spend in Mexico, the greater the risks they run.

“An app-based appointment system suggests the illusion of order and impartiality, but in reality CBP One puts people in danger and means more profit and power for criminal cartels,” said Sawyer. “The United States and Mexico can and should do better.”

• US-Mexico border
• US immigration
• Biden administration
• Human trafficking

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Florida's tourism agency campaigns for 'legal' Mexican visitors

Visit florida, the state's tourism marketing arm, has a $368,000 contract for 'protecting and growing visitor volume from mexico to florida.'.

The state of Florida, hoping to boost tourism from Mexico, is ready to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to increase "legal" travel from south of the border.

Visit Florida, the state's tourism marketing arm, is advertising a $368,000 contract for "protecting and growing visitor volume from Mexico to Florida" and "extending the length of stay and increasing spending by Mexican visitors," according to a request for proposals.

The agency outlines the requirements for the PR strategy, including paying for Mexican journalists and content creators to come to Florida and write tourism-related stories.

The initiative comes around the same time that Gov. Ron DeSantis, an outspoken critic of the federal government's response to the increase of migrants at the Mexican border, has suggested a special session for Florida lawmakers to address immigration enforcement.

"We encourage all visitors to come through the proper legal channels to experience all that Florida has to offer," Visit Florida President and CEO Dana Young said. "And if anyone attempts to come to our state illegally, the governor’s words speak for themselves."

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

This year, DeSantis signed legislation that increases the penalties for driving without a valid license, an issue for undocumented immigrants who cannot apply for a license in Florida, and prohibits counties and municipalities from accepting identification documents that are provided to people who are unlawfully living in the U.S.

DeSantis also sent the Florida State Guard to Texas to help set up razor wire along the Rio Grande in February, a move that went against the U.S. Supreme Court's decision that gave the Biden administration the authority to manage the border.

“It's sad that you don't have a president willing to just, you know, put his foot down and say, ‘I'm not going to let this happen to my country,’ ” DeSantis has said. “But in the absence of that leadership, in the face of the dereliction of duty, we're going to step up and do our part.”

Mission to Mexico

Last year, 514,000 Mexicans traveled to Florida , according to Visit Florida statistics. The top origin countries with travelers who visited Florida were Canada, with 3.8 million; the United Kingdom, with 1.1 million visitors; and Brazil, with 1 million.

The agency selected for the marketing campaign will be tasked with increasing media exposure in Mexico to "support targeted demographic markets" and to "increase the economic impact and gain by Mexican leisure travelers through marketing initiatives by (Visit Florida) and the tourism industry."

The agency awarded the contract will have an annual budget of $128,000 for public relations and $235,000 for trade, according to the request, and the agency must provide a full-time staff person for each, on top of a managing director for the marketing campaign.

Trade is a marketing strategy that targets distributors, wholesalers and retailers to promote business rather than consumers.

In 2023, Florida saw 135 million tourists , but international travel still has not returned to pre-COVID heights. Out of the 135 million tourists in 2023, only 12.1 million of them were from Canada or overseas markets, according to Visit Florida. Before the pandemic, 13.9 million visitors were international tourists.

Young said 2023 had the largest number of "legal visitors" from Mexico ever recorded. This past March, Florida saw a 61% increase in Mexican tourist visitation compared to the same period in 2019. Young said the numbers do not include undocumented immigrants.

Also, the campaign to promote Florida tourism in Mexico isn't new, Young said. The request for proposals "is the continuation of routine business that (Visit Florida) has been conducting for many years."

Visit Florida has long been in the crosshairs of the state’s legislative budget hawks, especially House Republicans, starting with then-House Speaker Richard Corcoran in 2016.

It leaked out that the state’s tourism marketing arm had secretly cut a deal worth up to $1 million for Miami rap superstar Pitbull to promote Florida tourism. Then-VISIT Florida CEO Will Seccombe resigned shortly afterward, and the House for years has tried to either abolish the agency through legislation or defund it in the budget process.

Florida's 2024-25 budget includes $80 million for VISIT Florida . DeSantis has not yet signed the budget for next year, which is expected to be several billion dollars lighter than the year before.

Border politics

DeSantis, who unsuccessfully ran for president for eight months, has consistently backed legislation to deter undocumented immigrants from living in Florida, including what was dubbed one of the harshest immigration laws in the country.

He has blasted Biden and the federal government, not only for their response to asylum seekers at the Mexican border, but also for a  Department of Homeland Security rule  that allows vetted Haitians, Nicaraguans, Venezuelans and Cubans to enter the country and work for two years.

"We’re doing more in Florida to deal with it than the Congress is," DeSantis said last week in Naples. "It’s just pathetic that that’s going on. So I was really, really disappointed to see that they basically capitulated entirely on the border, and at this point you’re not gonna see anything done on the border for the rest of this year."

"What are we just going to let in another 2 million people and do nothing about it? I think it was a real, real failure," he added.

Last year, when SB 1718 was passed, Mexico's president urged Latino voters not to vote for DeSantis, the day after the governor announced his campaign for the White House. "I hope the Hispanics of Florida wake up and don't give him a single vote," President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said.

USA TODAY contributed. Ana Goñi-Lessan  is the State Watchdog Reporter for USA TODAY - Florida and can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter/X: @goni_lessan.

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Benefits and Responsibilities of Asylees

If you are granted asylum, you are authorized to work in the United States whether or not you have an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766/EAD) . If for some reason you do not receive an EAD after being granted asylum, you should contact the asylum office that granted your case. You may use the EAD to present to an employer as a List A document on the  Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification Form.  You are eligible to use employment services from One-Stop Career Centers including:

• Job search assistance
• Career counseling
• Occupational skills training

For information, call 1-877-872-5627.

You may immediately apply for an unrestricted Social Security card at a Social Security office once you have asylees status. You can get Social Security Card information by contacting the Social Security Administration. For more information, see the Social Security Administration website.

You may request derivative asylum status for your spouse or children who were listed on your asylum application. For more information, see the Family of Refugees and Asylees  page.

After one year in the United States, you may apply for permanent residence (a Green Card). You must file a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status , for yourself and each qualifying family member who wants to become permanent residents.

For more information, see the Green Card for Asylees  page.

You may be eligible to receive the help from an organization in your area funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Service may include: 

• Financial assistance
• Medical assistance
• Employment preparation and job placement
• English language training

Many of these programs are available for a limited time period once you are granted asylum. Find out more by calling 1-800-354-0365 or see the Office of Refugee Resettlement website.

Asylees are subject to special rules for traveling outside the United States. If you plan to leave the United States, you must receive prior permission to by obtaining a refugee travel document.

For more information, see How Do I Get a Refugee Travel Document? (PDF, 622.89 KB) .

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Why Rwanda? Migrant deportation bill explained and what life’s like at Hope Hostel

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Rishi Sunak ’s plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has finally passed through parliament after a crunch vote in the Commons.

MPs passed the Rwanda Bill after hours of debate and months of political ‘ping pong’ over the highly controversial proposals.

The lengthy legislation has a rather simple goal: allowing the government to put some asylum seekers on one-way flights to Rwanda.

Rather than have their claims proceed by British immigration officials, those who sought sanctuary with the UK in mind will be potentially resettled in the African nation.

From the very moment then prime minister Boris Johnson proposed, human rights campaigners and legal experts have said that at its best the law is unworkable and at its worst inhumane.

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Some two years on, Rishi Sunak said Monday the first planes are booked to take off in the next 10 to 12 weeks.

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The plan isn’t law just yet but will very soon after it’s granted Royal Assent – the final rubber stamp a policy needs to get in the books.

Sunak believes the legislation – branded ‘dangerous and ‘authoritarian’ by Human Rights Watch – is vital to his plan to stop asylum seekers from crossing the English Channel.

Today, at least five asylum seekers – including children – died trying to cross the stretch of sea known for its frigid waters and strong waves.

But what is the Rwanda plan and what is the Hope Hostel?

Is Rwanda safe?

Depends on who you’re asking.

The so-called ‘ Safety of Rwanda ’ bill states some existing human rights statutes will not apply to the scheme and strong-arms the courts into treating the country as safe.

This all but defied the UK Supreme Court’s judgement that it is anything but, with experts pointing to its authoritarian leader, Paul Kagame, as one example of why.

MPs ended the deadlock over the bill’s passage after rejecting a Peer-proposed requirement that Rwanda could not be treated as safe until the secretary of state, having consulted an independent monitoring body, made a statement to parliament.

Law experts say ‘ no evidence ’ has been provided to show Rwanda is safe for asylum seekers and also ‘sets a dangerous legal and constitutional precedent by legislating to overturn an evidence-based finding of fact by UK courts’.

In a since-archive document published by the Home Office in May 2022, officials admit there is ‘some evidence of discrimination and intolerance’ towards LGBTQ+ people in Rwanda.

Leila Zadeh, the executive director of Rainbow Migration, a group that supports LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, thinks differently.

‘It is dystopian that this government has passed a law that ignores facts and declares contrary to evidence that Rwanda is a safe country,’ she says.

‘Most of us welcome people who have fled unimaginable horrors, but instead, this government is intent on sending them to danger.’

Who will the plan fly to Rwanda?

The government’s  guidance  says asylum applicants may be eligible for removal to Rwanda if three criteria are met:

• The government determines that they were previously present in or connected to another country where they could have claimed asylum.
• Their ‘journey to the UK can be described as having been dangerous’, such as across the English Channel or by lorry.
• If they travelled on or after 1 January 2022.

Where is Rwanda?

What is Rwanda like?

Rwanda, a small landlocked country in east-central Africa, is known to some as the ‘land of a thousand hills’.

It’s one of the smallest countries in Africa, roughly the size of 17 Greater Londons, and unsurprisingly is made up of a fair few hills and mountains.

Kigali is the country’s capital city but most people live on the outskirts. Music and cancer are central to Rwandan culture, from festivals to tall tales and the famous traditional dance of Intore.

What is the Hope Hostel?

Hope Hostel is accommodation in Kagugu, a neighbourhood on the hills of Kibali, where asylum seekers will end up after they land in Rwanda.

It features a basketball court, football pitch and, right now, empty beds and seats as staff wait for whether the planes will take off.

Other sites that could one day house asylum seekers who dreamt of lives in Britain are currently being contracted.

How much will the Rwanda plan cost?

A lot. About £1,800,000 for each of the first 300 asylum seekers deported to Kigali, Whitehall’s official spending watchdog estimated last month.

Overall, the National Audit Office says the scheme will cost taxpayers half a billion pounds.

How much the government has paid Rwanda for the scheme is unclear. Though, officials have coughed up about £220,000,000 into a special pot to help Rwanda’s economic growth and cover costs.

Denisa Delić, a director of advocacy for the International Rescue Committee UK, said that the cost is just one flaw with the plan.

‘Sending refugees to Rwanda is an ineffective, unnecessarily cruel and costly approach,’ she said.

Enver Solomon, CEO of the campaign group Refugee Council, added that there are additional costs to the scheme outside of plane tickets.

‘Even on the government’s best-case scenario, the Rwanda scheme will remove no more than 5,000 people a year out of the 10s of thousands of people shut out of the asylum system,’ she said.

‘Inexplicably, the government would rather pay to look after them indefinitely than simply grant them a fair hearing on UK soil to decide who can settle here.’

What do the public feel about the Rwanda plan?

While the Conservatives on X have insisted the policy is what the British public wants, polls show something more complicated.

Labour when the British people say they want controlled borders: pic.twitter.com/Q9euPZEAAB — Conservatives (@Conservatives) April 22, 2024

A survey last summer showed the public is divided on whether the Rwanda plan is a good idea. About 42% of those asked by YouGov ’strongly support’ it, while 39% oppose it – 19% said they ‘don’t know’ how to feel.

While the majority of Britons feel immigration should be reduced, most aren’t sure if immigration is a good or bad thing.

Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, said instead of the Rwanda plan, the government should open more safe routes – these are ways to get to the UK approved by the government. There are no visa schemes for anyone fleeing persecution to apply for asylum in the UK, for example.

‘This arrangement seeks to shift responsibility for refugee protection, undermining international cooperation and setting a worrying global precedent,’ he said.

One gay man from Guatemala recently granted refugee status said knowing people like him could wind up in Rwanda has left him shaken.

‘It feels like they don’t consider you human enough to provide you with a home, to give you a place to live,’ he told Rainbow Migration.

‘It feels like you are this problem that nobody wants to deal with, so you get to be tossed around from country to country, which gives you such a hopeless feeling.’

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